Millstream Brewing Co.

Editor's Review

Midwest Living Recommends

A pint at this local brewery is a relaxing interlude during a busy day touring the Amanas.

If you've spent the day bustling from shop to shop or exploring the scenic back roads around Amana, an afternoon beer at the Millstream Brewing Company is a perfect way to wind up the day. This small, cozy shop in Amana offers free samples (two per person) to suit every taste. The Iowa Pale Ale is hoppy and strong, while the Windmill Wheat is lighter and golden. You can also sample the brewery's old-fashioned root beer and black cherry and cream sodas. Millstream opened in 1985, changed hands in 2000, and benefited from the soaring interest in craft beer during the past 10 years. The brewery's beers are made on-site, and visitors can peek through large windows to glimpse the fermentation vats and the bottling operation. While not as exciting as a true brewery tour, it is fun to drink beer at its source. The building isn't much to look at inside. A small shop sells beer and beer-related merchandise, including mugs, steins and T-shirts; another small room contains plastic tables and a flat-screen TV for relaxing with a full glass. Weather permitting, it's much nicer to enjoy your beverage on the brick patio or deck in the outdoor beer garden.